Chicago > See & Do: Nightlife

Grab your partner in crime (or go solo) and head to Al Capone’s old speakeasy, The Green Mill. If you arrive early enough on a Sunday night for the legendary Slam Papi’s Uptown Poetry Slam, you can sit in the same booth as Al (it’s the one facing the front door. He liked to keep his eye on the patrons...

The Hideout is a very special place, transformative in the physical and metaphysical sense. During the summer everyone takes it outside, and the small alley-like street turns into a jamfest. Inside, decorative lights create a cozy atmostphere, lending good vibes to this truly midwestern hideout, tucked between 90/94 and the Chicago River. You’d never end up here if you weren’t...

Drag queen cabaret as it’s finest: diva’s, martinis, and a white cubed layout that doubles as a runway. Show the dolled up lip-singer’s some love with singles and you’ll be hard pressed to find a more entertaining way to drink the night away. The Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club is the bedazzled heart of Boystown. Daily Specials with half-priced martinis...

The greatness of Schubas consists of three parts: one part music venue, one part bar, and one part restaurant. You either come for the acts, the brunch, or their baked mac ‘n’ cheese*. Check the calendar for who’s coming to town as well as their sister venue, Lincoln Hall. *Half-priced mac ‘n’ cheese on Wednesdays.

What does Chris Farley, Tina Fey, Bill Murray, John Belushi, Stephen Colbert, Dan Aykroyd, and a slew of others have in common? Second City has been an important staple in the careers of many comedians. Check their website for the latest in hilarity, and if you’re around for a while and think you have what it takes to join the...

Chicago is home to one of the oldest, strictly stand-up comedy venues in the nation. Since 1978, Zanies has been bringing in top names as well as playing a pivotal role in launching locals of laughter into the marquees. Nearly every inch of the wall is adorned with signed, framed headshots of those who have graced the basement-like atmosphere of...